Composer

:

John Rutter

Genre

:

Choral

Style

:

Carol

Compose Date

:

1984

Average_duration

:

4:15

'Candlelight Carol' is a Christmas carol composed by John Rutter, a British composer and conductor. The carol was composed in 1984 and was first premiered in the same year by the Cambridge Singers, a choir founded and conducted by Rutter himself. The carol is written in three movements, with the first and third movements being in a slow and contemplative tempo, while the second movement is more lively and joyful. The first movement begins with a solo voice singing the opening lines, "How do you capture the wind on the water? / How do you count all the stars in the sky?" The choir then joins in, singing the main melody in a gentle and soothing manner. The second movement is a contrast to the first, with a faster tempo and a more upbeat melody. The choir sings the words, "Christ, the light of the world, / You come to us," in a joyful and celebratory manner. The third movement returns to the slower tempo of the first, with the choir singing the final lines, "Love incarnate, love divine, / Star and angels gave the sign." The carol is characterized by its simple yet beautiful melody, which is accompanied by a piano and optional string orchestra. The lyrics, written by Rutter himself, are inspired by the Nativity story and focus on the themes of light, love, and hope. The carol has become a popular Christmas song and is often performed by choirs and orchestras around the world during the holiday season. Overall, 'Candlelight Carol' is a beautiful and moving Christmas carol that captures the spirit of the season. Its simple yet powerful melody and lyrics make it a timeless classic that continues to be enjoyed by audiences of all ages.

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